In 1981, Burton was elected his first year on the ballot. He joined his father Nelson Sr. as the first father-son combination inducted into the performance section. Burton highlighted his professional career by winning the 1976 USBC Masters. His record eight USBC Open Championships eagles ties him with fellow Hall of Famers Fred Bujack and Bill Lillard. For many years, he handled the color commentary on PBA telecasts. He was nominated for an Emmy in the sports analyst category in 1982, 1983, 1985 and 1987.